The Human Rights and Conflict Resolution Centre (HRCRC) in Ebonyi State has successfully secured the release of over 50 inmates from various correctional centers across the state. The Executive Director of HRCRC, George Etamesor, revealed this achievement on Tuesday during a ceremony marking International Human Rights Day in Abakaliki.
Etamesor highlighted the collaboration between the HRCRC and several organizations, including the National Human Rights Commission, Legal Aid Council, Ministry of Justice, Correctional Service, Nigerian Bar Association, and other relevant bodies, as instrumental in securing the inmates’ freedom.
He criticized the overcrowded conditions at the Abakaliki Custodial Centre, which houses over 1,000 inmates—far exceeding its intended capacity of 370.
“We will not stop until we establish a branch in every community to deepen our grassroots presence,” Etamesor vowed. He also commended the State Government, Attorney-General Dr. Ben Odoh, Commissioner of Police Anthonia Uche-Anya, and other security agencies for their partnership.
In his remarks, Tony Ojukwu, Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), emphasized the theme for this year’s celebration: “Our rights, our future, right now.” Represented by NHRC Legal Officer Ejimnkeonye Odenyi, Ojukwu noted that the event was a call to action to bridge gaps in human rights protection.
“This event is a time to take stock of our compliance with human rights instruments, ensuring that state obligations are met and citizens’ rights protected,” Ojukwu said.
